The Snake's wrath as far as his higher deputies had ever been concerned, was in their own words: Utterly terrifying. 

Bungarus knew this for a long while, when he started out as a junior before rising up to the ranks of the higher deputy, he had witnessed firsthand the extent to which The Snake would go to eliminate threats and maintain control over his criminal empire. As he climbed the ranks, he was used to seeing the bodies left in the wake of The Snake's vengeance, the ruthlessness with which he dealt with traitors and informants, and the chilling precision with which he executed his plans.

Having recently become one of The Snake's most trusted deputies, he was in charge of overseeing key operations and ensuring that The Snake's orders were carried out without question. Usually, his plan had 70 percent effectiveness, sadly, however, today wasn't going to be one of those days.

"You tried to eliminate the members of the Tantei association at the professor's house and what happened? Failure! They survived! Then my daughter kidnapped Kudo Shinichi and Mouri Ran, and what happened? Another failure! You let them escape. If I find out how they managed to do that, death will come to those responsible. I DO NOT TOLERATE FAILURE!"

The Snake's voice, distorted through a special microphone, screamed in their ears.

Fortunately for Bungarus, it appears some opportunistic lower-rank criminals had decided to take the initiatives to do it without his influence, which spared him from being punished by The Snake.

Though it was odd that Adeline, The Snake's daughter, was involved in the kidnapping.

There was no way in hell Bungarus would suggest this strategy, it was too reckless. Especially since the 7 members of Tantei Association were out together dining at a fast food restaurant, although it was a perfect opportunity to simply kidnap one of them when they wander off from the group, at that time, he was certain the association that was run by those 7 children although had suspicions that The Snake is involved, they had nothing to tie The Snake to Professor Shibuya.

Unfortunately, this unexpected kidnapping just not only proves to the opposing side that The Snake is very much involved, but even the cops are now aware, just great.

The gangsters were all summoned to his fortress atop one of the city's highest buildings faced the silver screen that concealed The Snake's true identity. As Bungarus and the rest of the deputies of equal rank were told to gather at the meeting room, whispers were exchanged.

"Neh, Bungarus, is it true? That Adeline kidnapped those two other members without The Snake's authorizing her?!" Denisonia, another criminal who shared the same mindset as him, questions him in a low whisper.

Bungarus nodded subtly, his expression a mix of frustration and concern. "Yes, it's true. I had no idea she was planning something like this. She acted without any authorization or coordination from The Snake."

"Unbelievable. She's always been reckless, but this takes it to a whole new level." Denisonia shook his head incredulously before scowling, "By the way, you didn't order her to do that, did you?"

"You must be joking! His daughter is 10 years old! If I do that, my head would be served for his upcoming birthday party!" Bungarus's eyes widened at Denisonia's accusation, and he quickly shook his head, "No way."

"True enough," Denisonia studied Bungarus for a moment before nodding, seemingly satisfied with his response before shivering a bit, "I do remember the previous deputy before you, his head as the mantlepiece was a chilling reminder of what happens when you cross The Snake."

Denisonia is the most senior member of the deputies, having been with The Snake for multiple criminal endeavours before The Snake's empire began in Japan last year. He had seen numerous deputies come and go, some disappearing without a trace, and others meeting a more gruesome fate. He had survived by being cautious, keeping his head down, and following orders to the letter.

When Bungarus started out, he was 'interning' under Denisonia.

"Ugh, I definitely remembered that party,"  Bungarus recalled, "I know it was a welcome internship party for me at that time, but those idiots...why did they think their idiotic ambitious would take them to where The Snake is now?" 

Denisonia let out a low chuckle, his expression grim. "Ambition can be a double-edged sword in this line of work. It pushes people to strive for power and influence, but it also blinds them to the dangers and risks involved."

"That's for sure," Bungarus replied, a touch of bitterness in his voice. "I've seen so many eager newcomers come in, thinking they can outsmart The Snake or seize control for themselves. And they all end up... well, you know."

"Ooi, am I late?!" Krait, another deputy rushed over in a hurry. From his dishevelled look, it appeared he slept late again.

Bungarus rolled his eyes at Krait's entrance. "You're lucky The Snake isn't in the mood for immediate punishments right now. Take your seat."

"Bungarus, don't be harsh on Krait, alright? He is still a kid."Denisonia reasoned.

"A kid?" Bungarus scoffed before pointing at Krait, "He is 24!"

Denisonia chuckled, shaking his head. "Well, in our line of work, age doesn't necessarily determine maturity."

"24, and still screwing around with multiple women," Bunargus adds.

"Ah, the classic signs of a man who's afraid of commitment and responsibility," Denisonia smirked, his tone filled with amusement.

"You guys are giving me a hard time even before the boss starts." Krait plopped down in his seat with an exaggerated sigh.

"Also, Bungarus," Denisonia sternly reminded him, "I know he is your younger brother, but he is still young. He has to juggle university life and this life."

"I know, I know. But sometimes, it's like he never grew up. When I was around his age even as I started a life as a criminal before working for The Snake, I never behaved that way!" Bungarus sighed, running a hand through his hair in exasperation.

"As I say, don't be too harsh on Krait and he will turn around," Vermicella pushed the door open as he enters the meeting room.

"Ah, Vermicella, you're here," Denisonia greeted with a nod, a faint smile playing on his lips.

"Sorry for being late, had to handle some issues," Vermicella replied, taking a seat. "So, what's the topic for today?"

"Krait's personal life is under my family issue, so leave out of it." Bungarus snarled through Vermicella and remained unfazed.

"You do know that Vermicella used to be a psychologist for trouble youths, right?" Denisonia pinched his nose bridge.

"So what if he is? He lost his job eventually, didn't he?" Bungarus scoffed.

"Ah, but I am better of qualified than you, you know?" Vermicella leaned back in his chair, a small smile playing on his lips.

Bungarus rolled his eyes, clearly not in the mood for a debate about qualifications. 

"Aside from all of this, anyone knows why are we here by the way?" Krait frowned, "I had plans to be in bed all day till I receive a call that there is an emergency meeting!"

Bungarus sighed, shaking his head at Krait's lack of awareness. "Well, Krait, since you're so eager to know, we're here because of that little runt's recent escapade."

Krait's eyes widened in surprise, his expression shifting from confusion to realization. "Wait, Adeline? The Snake's daughter!? What did she do this time?"

"She decided it was a brilliant idea to kidnap Kudo Shinichi and Mouri Ran, members of the Tantei Association." Bungarus leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table, his expression grave.

Krait's jaw dropped in shock. "Wait, you're telling me she actually kidnapped those two? But... why?"

"That's the billion-yen question," Denisonia replied with a sigh. "And not just that, she did it without The Snake's authorization or coordination. It's a massive breach of protocol."

Vermicella raised an eyebrow. "Kidnapping members of the Tantei Association? That's a risky move, even for her. What was she thinking?"

"If things were to take a turn for the worst, is that from the looks of things at the beginning, Tantei Association had nothing to link to that recent endeavour of The Snake. But thanks to Adeline kidnapping those two without The Snake knowing, the police now know about it!" Bungarus slams his fist on the table.

The room fell into a heavy silence as the implications of Adeline's actions began to sink in. The Snake's criminal empire had operated with utmost secrecy and careful planning, avoiding any direct confrontations with law enforcement. But Adeline's impulsive and reckless move had exposed them to the authorities, and the consequences could be dire.

"Idiot girl," Krait muttered under his breath, his expression a mix of frustration and disbelief. "What was she thinking, acting without The Snake's approval?"

"She's always been a wild card, but this... this is on a whole new level," Denisonia remarked, his tone tinged with concern.

"Denisonia, I don't mean to be rude, but why is it that The Snake had to keep his ex's daughter around? She isn't even biologically related to him!" Krait whined.

"Krait, you need to learn not to ask such questions," Bungarus snapped at him.

"It's true! It ain't a secret that she is the daughter of the first love The Snake never got to marry, because that ex of his was forced to marry a scumbag! I swear even that scumbag's blood run in her!" Krait rattled in anger.

Denisonia let out a heavy sigh, his expression a mix of weariness and frustration. "Krait, it's not our place to question The Snake's decisions. He has his reasons for keeping Adeline close, and we don't need to know all the details."

"Besides, you know The Snake doesn't take kindly to anyone prying into his personal matters," Vermicella added, his tone firm.

Krait grumbled but fell silent, clearly realizing he had crossed a line. The tension in the room was palpable as the deputies contemplated the situation they now found themselves in.

"Anyway, The Snake will be punishing Adeline obviously by forfeiting her rights to use the credit card and any means of communication for the entire month," Bungarus continued, trying to steer the conversation back on track.  "But that doesn't solve the bigger issue at hand. The fact that she acted without authorization has put us all at risk."

"I will not be stopped once the police stop protecting them. I don't want them or Sergeant Genzo causing further trouble. We have billions of yen within our grasp we can't afford any more mistakes! I WON'T ALLOW ANYTHING OR ANYONE TO STAND IN MY WAY!"

The deputies flinched, overhearing The Snake's furious voice through the special microphone. The chilling intensity of his words hung heavy in the air, a stark reminder of the consequences that failure could bring.

"I swear that The Snake should've crack whip Adeline," Krait scoffed.

Bungarus shook his head, his expression grave. "Regardless of how The Snake handles Adeline, we need to focus on damage control. The fact remains that the police are now aware of our involvement in this situation. We need to find a way to contain the fallout and protect The Snake's interests."

"I agree," Vermicella nodded, his tone serious. "We can't afford any more mistakes. The Snake's empire is at stake."

"Ahhh! That damn girl! She only knows how to cause messes around here and there!" Krait ranted, "I should ask The Snake for a pay raise for putting up with her antics!"

While Vermicella, Bungarus and Krait discuss among themselves how to salvage the situation thanks to 10-year-old Adeline, Denisonia could only ponder whether it was a mistake to have The Snake look after his niece in the first place.

..........................................................................................................

In the Tantei Association HQ however, Emiko was pacing up and down, deep in thought, at their headquarters. The remainder of the members, Michio, Junko and Takuma watched her, wondering what was on her mind.

"Neh guys, I was wondering...considering Professor Shibuya's neighbour witnessed Shibuya's former student/junior, Professor Hoga, helping him to move his furniture and birds at around 9 am this morning, do you think it is possible that Professor Hoga was the one who stole the stuffed eagle?" Emiko thinks.

Michio scratched his head, his expression is contemplative. "Well, it's definitely a possibility. If Professor Hoga was at Professor Shibuya's place around the time of the theft, he could have had the opportunity to take the stuffed eagle."

"I mean if Emiko were to think about it, it would make sense," Junko adjusted her spectacles, "Professor Agasa mentioned that Professor Hoga is Professor Shibuya's only friend.  He trusted no one but him alone since he knew that The Snake was closing in on him, maybe he gave Hoga the eagle for safekeeping." 

"Even though I agree with this, something else still bothers me about that theory, "Takuma toyed with his cap and shook his head. "I don't see the point of Professor Shibuya having troubled his way to come to us to locate the eagle if he had long known where the stuffed eagle was all this time. No, that just doesn't add up."

Junko stamped her foot and glared at him. "Well, have you got a better theory?"

Michio cocked his head at Takuma. "Well?"

Takuma jumped up."I think we can't find the eagle or Professor Shibuya because somebody else besides The Snake has got both of them!"

Junko stared at him. "Who?"

"I don't know," Takuma shrugged. He turned his cap the wrong way round, much to Junko's annoyance. "Considering this theory, it would make sense for me. Cause if The Snake had the eagle in the first place, he wouldn't have sent a man to go rob Professor Shibuya's place last night."

"Well then if that is the case....who got the eagle then?" Emiko asked no one.

"I wish we knew," moaned Michio.

The sound of footsteps and voices approaching from the shop brought them all to their feet. "Wait, who is that?" Emiko grew starled.

"Do you think it's Ranran!? Did she finally manage to rescue Shinichi and Ran-san!?" Junko exclaimed. 

The tension in the Tantei Association HQ grew palpable as the footsteps and voices drew closer. Emiko, Michio, Junko, and Takuma exchanged quick glances, their anticipation mixed with anxiety. Could it really be Ranran returning with Shinichi and Ran-san? Or was it someone else entirely?

A moment later, Mouri Ran walked in, but her eyes look very red as if she cried a lot earlier.

The members of the Tantei Association exchanged surprised glances as Mouri Ran entered the room, her eyes looking visibly red as if she had been crying. The atmosphere in the room shifted from anticipation to concern as they realized that something must have gone wrong.

"Ran-san, you're back!" Emiko exclaimed, rushing forward to greet her. 

"What happened?" Michio asked, his voice tinged with concern while pointing at her eyes.

"She had a shouting match with Shinichi, that is what happened," Following behind Mouri Ran was Ranran who is accompanied by Shinichi.

Mouri Ran's expression was a mix of exhaustion and frustration as she entered the Tantei Association HQ, followed closely by Ranran and Shinichi. Her eyes were indeed red from crying, and it was evident that something significant had occurred.

Emiko, Michio, Junko, and Takuma exchanged concerned glances, realizing that their hope for a successful rescue mission might have been dashed. Ranran's presence added another layer of complexity to the situation, and they were eager to hear what had transpired.

"Ran-san, are you alright?" Emiko asked, her voice filled with genuine worry.

Mouri Ran managed a weak smile, though it was clear that she was emotionally drained. "I'll be fine. We just... had a disagreement."

Junko narrowed her eyes at Ranran, suspicion evident in her gaze. "And what's your role in all of this?"

"Nothing much, except that Mouri Ran announced she is officially quitting the association," Shinichi spoke before Ranran could.

The room fell into a stunned silence at Shinichi's announcement. The tension in the air seemed to thicken as the members of the Tantei Association processed the implications of Ran's decision. Emiko, Michio, Junko, and Takuma exchanged glances, their expressions a mix of surprise, confusion, and concern.

"Woah, I didn't see that coming," Michio sighed, running a hand through his hair.

"Quitting? But... why?" Emiko finally managed to ask, her voice tinged with disbelief.

Mouri Ran's gaze shifted to the floor, her fists clenched at her sides. "It's... complicated. Let's just say that there are certain things I need to sort out on my own."

Junko's eyes narrowed further. "Is this really about you needing time alone, or did Ranran force you again?"

"Believe it or not, this is actually her decision." Shinichi let out an exasperated sigh, crossing his arms, "She didn't even need to tell Mouri the 'Q' word this time, she volunteer on her own accord."

Junko folded her arms, her expression is sceptical. "And how do we know this isn't just another one of your schemes?"

"Oh, please. Ranran got nothing to gain from her leaving. If anything, having her around was... annoying at best." Takuma defended his friend while he rolled his eyes.

"Annoying? Is that really how you see me?" Mouri Ran raised an eyebrow, her expression turning incredulous.

"Can we please not get into this right now?" Shinichi interjected, clearly trying to defuse the situation. "Mouri is here to sign her official paperwork with Ranran."

 "That's right. I appreciate my time here, but I need to figure some things out on my own." Mouri Ran nodded, her gaze still averted.

"Ran-san, are you sure about this? We're here to support you, you know." Junko stepped forward, her expression sympathetic.

 "I know, Junko. And I'm really grateful for that. But this is something I need to do." Ran managed a small, appreciative smile.

Emiko who didn't say a word noted that Shinichi is internally happy since Ran is finally leaving the association. And he had good reasons after all, since she could tell the unhappiness he had to pent up whenever Mouri Ran causes trouble. Even Ranran was no different. Plus, Takuma is glad, he may not be smiling, but Emiko could tell based on the subtle relaxation in his posture that he's relieved to see this decision being made.

"Alright, if that's what you think is best for you," Michio chimed in, his voice supportive. "Just remember, we're here for you no matter what."

Ran smiled at Michio, her gratitude evident in her eyes. "Thank you, Michio. And thank all of you for everything."

With that, the tension in the room seemed to ease slightly. While there were still lingering questions and concerns, the members of the Tantei Association respected Ran's decision and offered their support.

Emiko cleared her throat, breaking the moment of silence. "So, um, regarding the stuffed eagle... We were just discussing some possibilities."

"Yeah, we were considering the theory that Professor Hoga might be involved in the theft," Junko explained.

Takuma nodded in agreement. "But then there's the issue of Professor Shibuya seeking our help if he knew where the eagle was all along."

Ranran, who had been quiet throughout this conversation, finally spoke up. "Alright, but before we discuss the Eagle case, I would like to process Mouri Ran's resignation from her membership first." 

"Why!?" Mouri Ran's gaze shifted from the floor to Ranran, her expression a mix of surprise and curiosity. "Are you that eager to remove me?!"

"In the first place, since you announced your resignation, I can't let a member who is about to leave run her mouth about the case." Ranran pointed out.

"Fine, let's get it over with then." Ran let out a sigh, her frustration evident in her expression.

Soon, Shinichi pulled out a stack of papers from the shelf and handed them to Ran. "Here are the resignation forms. Just fill them out and sign at the bottom."

Ran took the papers and a pen, her hands slightly trembling. 

She hates this, how powerless she is to Ranran.

Ran then sat down at a nearby table and began to fill out the forms, her gaze fixed on the paper in front of her. The room was filled with a heavy silence as the members of the Tantei Association watched her.

After a few minutes, Mouri Ran completed the forms and signed her name at the bottom. She handed the papers back to Ranran, her expression a mix of resignation and sadness. "There. It's done."

Ranran accepted the papers and gave a curt nod. "Thank you for your cooperation. Your membership will officially be terminated, effective immediately."

With that, Mouri Ran turned and headed towards the door, her steps steady but her shoulders slightly slumped. Ranran followed her, leaving Junko and Emiko a mixture of emotions – a sense of loss, but also a feeling of understanding and support.

But before leaving, Mouri Ran turned her head to ask the founder of Tantei Association, "Ranran, there is something I had to ask all this while."

Ranran, who was right behind Mouri Ran, raised an eyebrow. "What is it?"

Mouri Ran hesitated for a moment before speaking, her voice a mixture of curiosity and vulnerability. "The Fox, are you....that child Tantei who vanished?"

Ranran's expression remained unchanged, but a flicker of surprise crossed everyone's eyes, especially Shinichi, who knew that Ranran is secretly The Fox. "Why....are you asking this question out of the blue?" Ranran asked.

"I was thinking.....considering Shinichi severed all ties with me and Sonoko, not long after that, became your apprentice.....since Shinichi is a smart boy, there is no way he would simply trust someone he used to hate to train him as a Tantei." Ran's gaze was confronting Ranran's eyes. "There has been news circulating about the mysterious child Tantei who helped solve some significant cases for over a year before she vanished. And now, I can't help but wonder if that child Tantei is none other than you, Ranran."

Ranran's gaze remained steady, her expression unreadable. She didn't respond immediately, seemingly taking a moment to consider Mouri Ran's words. The room was filled with tension as everyone awaited her answer, while Shinichi is sweating bullets, wondering if he should intervene. Even Takuma is worried, and so was Michio and Emiko, since they too knew about Ranran's alter identity.

Much to everyone's surprise, Ranran's lips curled into a slight smile. "Any news of such nature should only be perceived as a joke. They hold no weight."

"But the similarities between that child Tantei and you are uncanny. The timing, the methods, even the rumours about her being an exceptional detective at a young age."

"Coincidences happen all the time, Mouri-san. It's natural for people to draw connections where there might not be any." Ranran's smile didn't waver.

"You're being evasive." Ran confronted

"Believe what you want to believe, Mouri-san. Speculation can lead down all sorts of rabbit holes." Ranran shrugged casually, her demeanour cool and collected.

"Also, she had no reason to answer those questions, since you harassed her for 2 months." Takuma brought this up.

Mouri Ran's expression turned thoughtful, her gaze shifting from Ranran to Takuma. "I suppose you're right. I have no right to pry."

"Indeed," Ranran replied, her tone casual. "It's always good to consider all possibilities before reaching a conclusion."

Ran let out a sigh, a mixture of frustration and resignation in her expression. "Well, I guess I'll never really know. But it doesn't matter now. My time in the Tantei Association is officially over."

"You're free to go now," Ranran stated, gesturing toward the door.

The long brown-haired brunette nodded and turned to leave. As she reached the doorway, she paused and looked back at the remaining members of the Tantei Association. "Thank you, all of you. For everything."

With those words, she walked out of the room, leaving behind a sense of finality and a room filled with a mix of emotions.

..........................................................................................................

"Alright, back to business," Shinichi announced, his tone brisk with excitement. "Let's discuss the Eagle case."

"Only 3 minutes since Mouri Ran left, you can tell there is a skip while walking towards his own seat." Emiko is amused.

"Who wouldn't be? Now that she is no longer around to pester Shinichi, I too would be jumping for joy, being the happiest child Tantei in the world," Takuma grins.

Ranran rolled her eyes playfully. "You two never miss a beat, do you?"

"I will prepare some tea to celebrate this occasion," Michio went over to the table with the kettle to pour the drink into each cup.

"You guys are terrible, you know that?" Junko scoffed, "Although I am aware Shinichi and Ranran had their bad blood with her for meddling around and stuff, she has been here for 2 months!"

"As if her existence did any good to the association," Takuma scowled mocking Junko, which made her eye twitch.

"Alright, alright, enough bickering," Ranran interjected, trying to steer the conversation back on track. "We have a case to solve, remember?"

"True," Shinichi nodded, his expression serious. "The Eagle case. We need to figure out who stole the eagle from Professor Shibuya's mansion, and why."

"By the way, I have to ask something," Emiko raised her hand to ask, "How did Ranran save you and Mouri when you were both kidnapped earlier?"

"Oh, that? Ranran had Rokuro over." Shinichi scoffed.

"Eeeeeeh!? Rokuro!?" All of them gasped in unison before Takuma blurted out, "You mean the same horrible boy who framed you for that feud!?"

"It's a long story," No sooner after Ranran had explained how Rokuro had rescued Shinichi and Mouri after Michio was done setting the drinks, Michio's phone shrilled.

Sergeant Genzo was on the line. "We raided that warehouse," he reported. "There was no sign of your friends."

"They've just walked in the door of the association's Hq," Michio told him.

"Can't believe it took you guys," Ranran checked the time, "2 hours to locate them by the time you guys headed there."

Sergeant Genzo let out a hearty chuckle on the other end of the line. "Well, you know, we had to make sure we were thorough in our search. But it's good to hear they're safe and sound."

"Thanks for your help, Sergeant," Ranran replied with a smile. "We really appreciate it."

"No problem at all. Just doing our duty to keep the peace," he replied. "And speaking of which, is it true that The Snake's 10-year-old daughter kidnapped Shinichi and Mouri?"

"Yup, with a gun," Shinichi answered.

"A gutsy one, if I may add," Takuma let out a low whistle. "She takes after her old man, I suppose."

"Not to mention, the evil comes from him as well." Junko spat in disgust at the mention of Adeline.

"But she certainly didn't inherit the recklessness from him," Emiko remarked, her tone dry.

 "Well, I'm glad to hear you are all alright,'' Sergeant Genzo snapped."Neither do I. Now listen, Majima, I want you all to stay where you are. Call me when your friends want to go home. The Snake is getting too active for my liking. He's definitely up to something. The whole case is getting out of hand. We've just had another report. I don't know what it means yet, and I don't know if The Snake is behind it, but Professor Hoga has gone missing from the university."

Ranran's expression turned serious as she listened to Sergeant Genzo's report. "Missing? That's concerning."

"Wait, missing!?" Shinichi exclaimed before pressing, "How long had it gone missing?"

"An hour after you all dropped by his office before the kidnapping incident took place," Sergeant Genzo gruffed.

"No sooner after we left? That's a very narrow window," Emiko mused, her brows furrowing in thought.

"Could it be related to the eagle case?" Junko wondered aloud. "Maybe he found out something about the theft and got into trouble."

"It's possible," Takuma agreed, nodding. "I mean he admitted to us earlier that he was helping Professor Shibuya move out his furniture."

"Plus the 150 birds too," Emiko adds.

"Correction, it is 150 plus birds," Michio corrected.

"Ugh, please don't talk about those birds," Junko shivered at that thought since she had a fear of birds, bringing her bad memories of last night when she accidentally walk into the aviary located at Professor Shibuya's mansion, only to have those birds swarm around her.

The room buzzed with energy as everyone set off on their respective tasks, leaving behind a sense of camaraderie and unity. 

..........................................................................................................

"Well, I didn't think things are going smoothly!"

Takuma spoke with glee while Ranran and Shinichi accompanied him to the train station, their meeting at the association was brought to an end after everyone dispersed to carry out their assigned tasks, the meeting will be carried out tomorrow afternoon.

Ranran chuckled, her eyes glinting mischievously. "Smoothly? That's not really our style, is it?"

Shinichi nodded in agreement. "Yeah, we tend to attract trouble wherever we go."

"I don't mean the case, I mean finally, Mouri Ran has finally left! It is very relieving!" Takuma yawned a bit as they all took a seat on a bench, waiting for Takuma's train to pick him up since he lived quite a distance.

"I wouldn't be too sure of that," Shinichi felt a bit uneasy.

"Why? She left, isn't that what you wanted?" 

"Well, yes, but it's just... I have a feeling that things might not be that simple," Shinichi explained, furrowing his brows in thought. "She's not the type to just give up and disappear. Plus, she seemed oddly calm about the whole resignation process."

Takuma raised an eyebrow. "You think she's up to something?"

"I know what she is up to, but I don't think she will be that obvious since she has been with us for over 2 months." Ranran felt a bit tense about this.

Takuma leaned forward, his curiosity piqued. "Care to share your thoughts?"

"It's just a hunch, but I believe...she is trying to dig out proof that Ranran is The Fox," Shinichi replied.

Takuma's eyes widened in surprise at Shinichi's revelation. "You mean she's investigating Ranran's secret identity? Why?"

"To get me to quit as Ranran's apprentice," Shinichi answered.

"No way, how would her finding proof that Ranran is The Fox would get you to quit?" Takuma chuckled.

"Because in the first place, the whole string of bad luck towards them began when Mamiko told a lie to Sonoko to discourage my dream as a Tantei that Ranran is 'The Fox'. The problem was, Mamiko didn't know Ranran is the real deal," Shinichi sighed, "If Mouri finds proof that Ranran is in fact The Fox, that meant everything we had orchestrated up to this point would be exposed, and the public backlash would be horrendous."

Takuma scratched his head, processing the information. "So, you're saying if Mouri Ran manages to prove that Ranran is The Fox, it would basically influence them to quit your Tantei Apprenticeship!?"

"That is one thing," Ranran nodded, his expression serious. "Another problem is she knows too much that goes on within the association. I don't think she is over Shinichi yet, and that her influence under Mamiko indirectly is still in her head."

Takuma frowned, clearly concerned by the implications of Mouri Ran's actions. "So, what's the plan then? How do we handle this?"

"Don't worry, I took care of the problem already," Shinichi replied, his gaze steady. "As for you, Ranran, if she starts getting too close to discovering your identity, take more drastic measures."

Ranran nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. 

"Man, things just got a lot more complicated than I thought." Takuma let out a low whistle, his expression a mix of awe and concern. "I think we shouldn't have allowed Mouri to be a member 2 months ago, unreasonably demanding Ranran to restore her friend's reputation when she broke into both of your houses. Had that stupid adult in our school approved of not letting members join our association, we would've been able to prevent Mouri Ran to join and be in this predicament."

Even Shinichi is pinching his nose bridge, regretting that decision.

"No, he made the right move," Ranran smiled dryly.

"Eh!?" The two boys gave an odd look.

"Don't forget, just because she knows a lot that goes about the association, didn't mean I wasn't monitoring her movement." Ranran gave a bit of a menacing look, "I know her weaknesses, her pet peeves, even which buttons to press to get her to react the way I wanted her to. As long I have that, she cannot do much to convince others that I am what she suspected me to be."

"I don't doubt your scheming, but what if Mamiko tries to do anything funny?" Takuma's eyes widened at Ranran's revelation. "She was able to dupe Rokuro into doing horrible things to Shinichi, and so did Shinichi towards you. And don't get me wrong, but Mouri is another level of hell."

"Mamiko is a concern, I won't deny that. She's manipulative and knows how to exploit people's weaknesses." Ranran's expression turned serious as she considered Takuma's question. "But as much as she is able to convince Mouri to look into my Fox identity, don't forget, she is already a pariah in the entire Teitan Elementary school. Even if Mouri Ran finds a shred of proof that ties me as 'The Fox', the solution to this problem is to make her beyond credible." 

"So, you're going to tarnish her credibility, so even if she brings up something against you, people won't take her seriously?" Shinichi nodded slowly, understanding the strategy.

"Exactly," Ranran confirmed. "And that video of Rokuro breaking into our place, it will do us favours."

"Hah man, I am thirsty talking about all of this." Shinichi stretched his limbs a bit before telling Ranran, "Neh, Ranran, could you buy me and Takuma a drink? My treat."

"Eh!? You can't be serious, right?!" Ranran gasped, "It's so far!"

"Come on, Ranran. You're the Fox, you've travelled through much worse situations than this." Shinichi let out an exaggerated sigh.

"Yeah, come on, Ranran. Show us some of your legendary detective skills. Go fetch us those drinks!" Takuma grinned mischievously.

"I will pay for your drink as well." Shinichi offered.

"No limits?" Ranran's tone shifted to glee at that offer.

Shinichi chuckled. "No limits. Just make sure to bring back something refreshing."

Ranran stood up, a playful glint in her eyes. "Alright then, I'll be back in a jiffy."

Standing out up from the bench and heading towards a nearby vending machine to get the drinks, Takuma turned to Shinichi, "So unlike you to offer to pay up for Ranran's drink."

"Cause I need to share with you something that Ranran has no idea about." 

Takuma raised an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued. "Oh? Do tell."

"The other day, after Ranran was struck by Rokuro while she was hospitalized.....I finally met them." 

"Who?!"

"Ranran's friends from Edgewood, they found out about it."

"Her friends from Edgewood?" Takuma's eyes widened in surprise, "You mean those children of royalty and nobility she often shared about!?"

Shinichi nodded. "Yeah, they showed up at the hospital to check on her. Turns out, they were the ones who installed the CCTV outside our association, which recorded Rokuro attacking Ranran."

Takuma's eyebrows shot up in astonishment. "Wait, so they were the ones behind that CCTV? But why would they do that?"

"From what I gathered, they have been keeping tabs on Ranran ever since she came to Japan, as a sort of 'backup' in case things go south for her. When you and Reina were away in the classroom, Ranran was chatting face to face on her smartphone with those Edgewood kids, when Mouri Ran....disrupted their conversation and demanded Ranran to restore her and Sonoko's reputation." Shinichi explained.

"Wait, so to cut a long story short, don't tell me they knew-"

"Yes, they knew of Rokuro's ties to Mouri Ran. So they plan to do the worst to Mouri." Shinichi confirmed.

Takuma's eyes widened even further, his astonishment growing. "I heard stories from Ranran of all of the horrible crap they are capable of, but how did you-"

"They met up with me when the nurse at the reception informed me that they were in her patient room," Shinichi admitted.

Takuma whistled lowly, clearly impressed. "Man, you must have quite the rapport with them to be trusted with such sensitive information."

"I guess they see me as an ally since I've been working closely with Ranran. Plus, they were concerned about her safety after the Rokuro incident." Shinichi scratched his head, a bit sheepish.

Realizing that Shinichi intentionally waited for Ranran to leave to let Takuma know about it, he guessed, "Ranran doesn't know, does she?"

Shinichi shook his head at her friend.

"Then...did you tell them about-"

"Of course, they told me to inform them about Mouri Ran's movements, including suspicions that she may...expose Ranran's identity as The Fox."

Takuma's eyebrows shot up again. "Wow, they really don't mess around, do they?"

"No, they don't. They're dead serious about protecting Ranran and the association from any potential threats," Shinichi replied.

Takuma leaned back against the bench, clearly processing all of this information. "Why are you telling me this?"

"Cause if Ranran knows, should Mouri Ran's friend Sonoko try to sue her or anything, they won't be able to as long as she knows nothing."

Takuma nodded slowly, understanding the gravity of the situation. "You want me to ensure Ranran knows nothing, right?"

"Exactly. Ranran is already dealing with a lot, especially with this Eagle case and Mouri Ran's hatred. The last thing she needs is to worry about Mouri and her friend trying to stir up trouble legally, let alone, shutting down Tantei Association." Shinichi explained.

Takuma let out a sigh, running a hand through his hair. "Man, all of this drama is getting way too intense."

"Yeah, tell me about it," Shinichi agreed. "But we'll get through it. We always do."

Takuma looked at his friend, a mix of admiration and concern in his eyes. "You know, you've really changed, Shinichi. I mean, you were always a great detective, but now...you're like the leader of this whole operation. Taking charge, strategizing, making tough decisions."

Shinichi chuckled softly. "Well, circumstances forced me to step up, I guess. But I couldn't have done it without Ranran and all of you."